Root Explorer Review

Root Explorer looks to accomplish a serious task: give its user access to the file system on the host Android device. It is able to list all the data, in several ways, in such a way that it can be manipulated, on the device itself, without the need for a desktop terminal.

It is especially geared towards root users — Android users that have attained administrative privileges on their devices — as the hidden file menu (which is the bane of stock Android ownership) is revealed with this app.

The feature list Root Explorer possesses is what sets it apart. Off the bat, it looks like a business tool, with simple navigation. For folks that like a bit of customization, the app offers the ability to tweak the appearance; there are different themes, and the iconset can be played around with, in addition to how the files themselves are presented. The developer allows the user to create as minimal of a user interface as possible. File paths have an easy visual path that is easy to understand.

Working with data is easy. One can easily delete, duplicate, copy and rename files. Additionally, it is possible to do advanced operations, such as adjust read/write permissions, zipping/extractions, sending/sharing files via installed utilities and more. The basic operations (like copying) flow intuitively, allowing one to place a file precisely where one wants it. The tab feature is also great, allowing the creation of quick access “tabs” at the top; so, if one frequently accesses a specific file path, said location can be bookmarked via a tab.

One of my favorite features is the ability of the app to access external cloud storage tools; using the tab interface, one get access to Dropbox, Box and Google Drive. This is a very convenient tool. Just as impressively, it is possible to interface with network locations via Samba. Again, Root Explorer serves as an invaluable conduit that allows users to manipulate files remotely.

All in all, for root users, Root Explorer can be a very functional tool. It works well, can be tweaked, and is a breeze to use. Additionally, for folks on the fringe (or unrooted folks), free app Explorer is available in slightly less functional form. It’s almost impossible to touch on all the app brings to the table, and that is one reason it is so compelling.